Sumlin to ‘hit ground running’ in Aggieland

COLLEGE STATION – A who’s who of Aggieland welcomed new coach Kevin Sumlin on Monday. He was introduced to the media and about 200 well-wishers, including 1957 Heisman Trophy winner John David Crow, university president R. Bowen Loftin, former A&M quarterback Bucky Richardson and chancellor John Sharp, among plenty of others.

“Heading into the SEC with one of the most traditional places in college football, and playing in the best conference and division in the nation, are the kinds of things that get me excited,” Sumlin said.

The Aggies are exiting the Big 12 after this season and entering the rugged Southeastern Conference starting next season. Athletic director Bill Byrne said Sumlin’s A&M contract will pay $2 million annually over five years. A&M president R. Bowen Loftin fired Mike Sherman on Dec. 1 following a 25-25 record over four seasons.

“One of the things I always look for is ‘fit,’” Byrne said. “I’m concerned if a (coaching candidate) fits the values, culture, society … We talked for two and a half hours and the time just flew by. Kevin Sumlin not only understands A&M’s values, he embraces them. He’s been here before.”

Sumlin served as an assistant to R.C. Slocum in 2001-02, the last year as his offensive coordinator. He’s since served as a co-coordinator at Oklahoma under Bob Stoops and spent the last four years as head coach at Houston, where the Cougars turned in a 12-1 record this year.

“I can’t wait to get to work,” said Sumlin, who was presented a maroon coat – and a white A&M visor – by Byrne to start the press conference. “We’re going to hit the ground running. I will be out on the recruiting trail this afternoon after our team meeting.”

Sumlin said he’s going to work hard to keep the 2012 recruiting class intact, which Rivals.com currently ranks sixth nationally. He also said he’ll begin working on the process of evaluating the best fits for his staff.